Spokesperson of theCambodian Ministry of Labour andVocational Training Heng Sour saidthe exports in the first quarter decreased by 80 percent year-on-year, when theCOVID-19 broke out in the EU and the US, the two largest markets of Cambodia’sgarment products, in February.
In the latter half ofApril, about ten more garment factories in Cambodia had to halt operation, affectingmore than 6,000 workers. During the time they had to suspend working, the workerswere paid 70 USD each month, in which 40 USD was from the Government and 30 USDfrom their employer.
According to Heng Sour, sofar 130 garment factories in Cambodia have suspended operationsdue to a sharp decline in purchase orders caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, affecting 100,000 workers.
According to data from the Cambodian Ministryof Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, the Southeast Asian country ishome to 1,099 factories operating in textiles, footwear and handbag industries./.